Troopers' Union Opposes Red Light Cameras Bill

The president of the Connecticut State Police Union is speaking out against legislation that would allow cities and towns to place traffic cameras at busy intersections and record drivers who run red lights.

Sgt. Andrew Matthews told The Hartford Courant on Wednesday that the bill's goal appears to be increasing revenue for cities and towns through traffic fines. He said troopers believe that police officers using discretion is a key element in public safety, and that replacing law enforcement with cameras is troublesome.

Backers of the bill insist it's about safety and saving lives.

The bill's lead supporter, New Haven Rep. Roland Lemar, says he's having trouble lining up support to bring it to a House vote, and time's running out because the legislative session ends next Wednesday